Hoyer Statement on July Jobs Report

WASHINGTON, DC – House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today after the Department of Labor released its jobs report for July:

“This morning’s report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics that our economy added 161,000 private sector jobs in July and that the unemployment rate dropped to its lowest level since 2008 is encouraging news. Our economy continues to add jobs, but Congress must do more to achieve the level of growth necessary to put every American still seeking employment back to work. The first thing we ought to do is end the uncertainty that has prevented businesses from making investments and adding jobs. To do so, Congress must reach a balanced agreement on deficits that can replace the irrational sequester and set us on a sustainable path to fiscal discipline.

“Congress can also take the important step of moving forward with legislation that aims to make our economy more competitive and strengthen American manufacturing. House Democrats’ Make It In America plan would do so by pursuing a national manufacturing strategy, promoting U.S. exports, encouraging businesses to bring jobs and innovation back to our shores, and training and securing a skilled workforce for the twenty-first century. A number of Make It In America bills already have bipartisan support, and House Democrats will continue to reach out across the aisle for Republican partners. When we return in September, I urge House Republicans to work with Democrats to bring Make It In America jobs legislation to the Floor.”